What we know about the new omicron vaccines
New vaccines developed for the COVID-19 omicron variant are scheduled to be available from mid-October in Japan, raising hopes that the population will soon be better protected.
The medical system has been under heavy strain, and the situation could become even more severe, the panel of experts said.
Shionogi confirms efficacy of oral COVID drug for omicron subvariant
The announcement came after a health ministry panel in July postponed the granting of emergency approval for the drug.
Japan to roll out COVID vaccine that targets omicron as early as October
The new vaccine is under development and was found to increase neutralizing antibodies against the BA.1 subvariant and were also effective for the BA.5 subtype to some extent.
Japan grants first payment for death related to COVID vaccination
A health ministry panel found that a causal relationship between subsequent health problems and the vaccine could not be denied in the case.
Japan minister urges young people to get a third COVID-19 shot
The probability of the currently dominant BA.5 omicron subvariant causing severe symptoms is almost the same as those of previous omicron variants.
China says Xi and other leaders got local shots in rare disclosure
China said all its leaders received locally made shots, the first time a confirmation was made in the absence of a vaccine mandate for the country with the world’s strictest virus controls.
Tokyo begins rollout of fourth shots for medical workers as cases surge
The decision to begin the vaccinations was aimed at ensuring enough medical workers are available as Japan sees record numbers of new cases.
As COVID wave grows, Japan beefs up response but won't limit business activities
With the seventh wave reaching unprecedented heights, the government is ramping up the number of hospital beds available and expanding the scope of those eligible for fourth vaccine shots.
COVID vaccine passports to soon be printable at Japan convenience stores
Starting next week, people residing in Japan who have received at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccination will be able to print their vaccine passports at certain convenience stores.
To curb infections, the panel stressed that it is necessary to speed up vaccinations, maintain medical care functions and thoroughly implement basic infection prevention measures.
Novavax’s COVID vaccine gets U.S. nod as latest tool against the coronavirus
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval makes Novavax’s shot the first vaccine authorized for adults that mimics the protein that the coronavirus uses to enter cells.
